The ADA’s monthly “Economic Outlook and Emerging Issues in Dentistry” survey asked respondents — 1,039 dentists — about how full their schedules were the first week of September and the biggest barriers to reaching a 100 percent full schedule.
Before September, schedules had never been less than 85.2 percent full in 2023, and they had been above 86 percent full since March.
Here are the top factors dentists reported as reasons why their practice schedules were not completely full in September:
Patient no shows or cancellations less than 24 hours in advance: 80 percent
Patient no shows or cancellations more than 24 hours in advance: 49.4 percent
Not enough patients making appointments: 48.8 percent
Trouble filling vacant staff positions: 26.1 percent
Other: 9.6 percent
COVID-19 safety protocols: 4 percent
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
